Police in Tonypandy are warning residents to step up security on their sheds and garages after a series of break-ins in the area over the past fortnight.

Bikes, power tools and other high value items have been stolen in a number of incidents from garages and garden sheds, and so South Wales Police are appealing to residents to check the security of their property and consider marking it.

Police are urging all residents to ensure that garages and sheds are kept secure and that they have decent locks to help prevent thieves getting in.

They say it is also important residents ensure side gates are kept locked to help deter thieves.

“If possible, make sure the door, and door frame, of any shed is solid and replace any damaged or rotten areas.

“This will help with making the door strong enough to resist being kicked or pushed in.

“Other options to consider are to fit key-operated window locks on opening windows, or screw them permanently shut from the inside if they aren’t used, and consider fitting a battery operated shed alarm.

“Shed alarms are a cheap and effective option in raising awareness that someone is attempting to break into your shed.”